Prof. Dr. Hatice Kumcağız of Ondokuz Mayıs University (OMU) stated that research indicates one in five young people shares their problems with artificial intelligence, describing this trend as an important indicator of young people’s growing need for understanding and connection.

Prof. Dr. Kumcağız, Head of the Guidance and Psychological Counseling Division in the Department of Educational Sciences at OMU’s Faculty of Education, noted that young people often turn to AI instead of family members, friends, or professionals because of concerns about being judged, criticized, or labeled.

“Research shows that today one in every five young people shares their problems with artificial intelligence. This finding is a striking indication of the extent to which young people are experiencing loneliness and a need to feel understood. One of the main reasons behind this trend is the search for a risk-free and emotionally sterile space. Real relationships naturally involve risks. Young people may worry about how others will perceive them if they share their problems with family members or friends. They may fear losing respect, appearing weak, or being judged. Even seeking professional help can sometimes create concerns about being labeled. Artificial intelligence, on the other hand, offers what appears to be a safe and judgment-free environment.”

“AI Is Available Anytime, Anywhere”

Kumcağız emphasized that AI is accessible around the clock and offers constant attention.

“Unlike a friend or family member who may be unavailable or busy, AI is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. It listens patiently and responds in a supportive manner. For this reason, many young people find it easier to turn to AI.”

“Isolation May Accompany Temporary Relief”

While acknowledging that AI may provide temporary emotional relief, Kumcağız warned that it cannot replace genuine human relationships.

“Sharing problems with AI may create a sense of relief, but it can also lead to isolation. Human relationships can sometimes be painful, yet they are also what help us heal. AI may serve as a refuge, but over time it may leave young people less prepared to deal with real-life conflicts, rejection, and interpersonal challenges.”

“AI Cannot Replace Therapy”

Kumcağız stressed that although AI can imitate empathy effectively, it cannot replace professional psychological support.

“Artificial intelligence can simulate empathy very well. It often tells people what they want to hear and creates a comfortable environment. Therapy, however, is not always comfortable. A professional counselor may challenge a client’s assumptions, confront contradictions, and encourage growth through difficult conversations. AI, as an algorithm, generally keeps individuals within a circle of validation. This is one reason why young people may increasingly turn to it.”

“It May Lead to Social Withdrawal and Loneliness”

According to Kumcağız, the smooth and conflict-free nature of AI interactions can make real-world relationships seem more difficult.

“AI does not interrupt, become offended, turn away, or challenge opinions. As a result, young people may gradually prefer these effortless interactions. However, real life does not function this way. Young people who become accustomed to frictionless communication may struggle with even minor disagreements in real relationships. This can contribute to loneliness, social anxiety, and difficulty forming deep and meaningful connections.”

“Understand the Reason Rather Than Banning It”

Kumcağız also addressed parents and educators, emphasizing that prohibiting AI use is not the right solution.

“If a parent or teacher discovers that a young person is sharing their problems with AI, they should not react with panic, anger, or immediate restrictions. Instead, they should try to understand why the young person prefers that environment. Rather than blaming them, we need to ask what is driving them toward the screen. This requires approaching children and young people without judgment or interrogation.”

Concluding her remarks, Kumcağız highlighted the importance of human connection:

“Artificial intelligence offers a flawless mirror, but it cannot embrace us. If we do not want our children and young people to seek refuge in a machine, we must learn to be more patient, compassionate, and nonjudgmental than AI itself.”